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On March 10th another assessment was done but nothing was detected. The bigger clean then went ahead from March 23rd to 27th but the amount of complaints continued to rise.

The EPA said: "The odour abatement unit, which relies on microorganisms to treat the odour from the waste water treatment plant, has struggled to stabilise since the cleaning has taken place, prolonging the occurrence of odour in the area.

"Further microorganisms were added to the unit on the 3rd April 2020 to help stabilise conditions in the unit."

A few days ago the environment bosses met with Merck again to discuss what they could do next.

Another inspection was carried out and a "damp mouldy cloth" smell was noted near the site.

Merck have now been told they need carry out "odour patrols" around the Carrigtwohill area as well as, establish a public communications programme, survey effluent streams coming in, take samples, and provide regular updates while the investigation is going on.

The company today released a statement acknowledging the problem and assured everyone that it does not pose any health risks.

They said: "Following on-site investigations, Merck identified that the odour abatement unit of the Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP) wasn’t operating at full efficiency.

"As part of its EPA licence, Merck’s site wastewater is treated in the on-site WWTP. With guidance and assistance from the specialist vendor of the equipment, this unit has recently undergone repairs with a further plan of action for additional abatement infrastructure agreed and notified to the EPA.

"Merck acknowledges that the odour issue is currently a cause of concern for people living in the locality.

"The company would like to assure members of the local community that it is working hard to rectify the situation as quickly as possible.

"The company will continue to communicate with local neighbours and other key stakeholders, including the EPA, regarding the matter."